Girl Scout cookies are here

Thursday

Feb 28, 2013 at 3:23 PMFeb 28, 2013 at 3:27 PM

Girl Scouts from Troop 1036 recently announced that they will be selling and delivering Girl Scout cookies now through March. Boxes of your favorite cookies can be picked up at different troop cookie stations in Helena-West Helena or delivered if needed.

Melissa Martinez

Girl Scouts from Troop 1036 recently announced that they will be selling and delivering Girl Scout cookies now through March. Boxes of your favorite cookies can be picked up at different troop cookie stations in Helena-West Helena or delivered if needed.
“Buying Girl Scout cookies is more than just handing over money for a box,” explained Jennifer Hadder, Troop 1036 leader. “It's about the skills and learning a girl gains from interacting directly with you the customer.”
According to Hadder, it's more about the experience of learning how to step out of their shell and gain the potential to run their own cookie business and working with others.
“When a Girl Scout sells you cookies, she's building a lifetime of skills and confidence. She learns goal setting, decision-making, money management, people skills and business ethics — aspects essential to leadership, and success,” stated Hadder.
While some customers are more than willing to buy these delectable treats, others may seem wary, considering the cost and where the proceeds go. Hadder explains that each Scout gets 48 cents per box that is sold and proceeds go toward incentives like offered prizes, such as stuffed animals, trinkets, coupons, credits toward Girl Scout camp, activities, or uniforms.
“This year the girls are really working hard to earn a trip to St. Louis where they will visit the zoo and camp out in Jelleystone Camp,” explained Hadder.
“Last year our troop sold 3,600 boxes and we anticipate the same numbers this year,” continued Hadder.
Girl Scouts sell cookies to relatives, friends, neighbors, and others in their town or city. In recent years, because of safety concerns, an increased emphasis has been placed on cookie booths, where girls sell from tables in public areas under the supervision of adult troop leaders, rather than door-to-door.
Troop 1036 will be set up in front of Fred's and encourages their customers to donate to sponsor boxes of cookies to be sent to U.S. servicemen and women.
In spite of all the sweet incentives, Scouts stress that the sale is not just about money — it's about leadership skills.
“One of the most powerful results of living the Girl Scout Law is the ability to exercise and recognize true leadership,” said Hadder. “Being honest and fair, courageous and strong, using resources wisely, respecting yourself and others, and making the world a better place. These are values that our staff and our volunteers on a national and a local level continually teach, model, and reinforce.”
For more information, contact Hadder at 870-753-1139.